Abstract: A master brake cylinder includes a unique mounting arrangement for securing thereof to a firewall of a vehicle and a particular porting arrangement. A cylinder sleeve includes a series of ports that cooperate with movement of the piston allowing for by-passing of the piston at one end position and then movement of the piston past the ports for brake actuation. Additionally a two stage pressure intensifier is provided that is in-line between a master brake cylinder and brake pistons. The intensifier also includes a by-pass position at one end of the movable piston having a differential area between a forward and a rear face of the piston.

Abstract: A master brake cylinder includes a unique mounting arrangement for securing thereof to a firewall of a vehicle and a particular porting arrangement. A cylinder sleeve includes a series of ports that cooperate with movement of the piston allowing for by-passing of the piston at one end position and then movement of the piston past the ports for brake actuation. Additionally a two stage pressure intensifier is provided that is in-line between a master brake cylinder and brake pistons. The intensifier also includes a by-pass position at one end of the movable piston having a differential area between a forward and a rear face of the piston.

Abstract: A disk brake arrangement includes a retraction mechanism for positively retracting brake pads after application to the brake rotor. Preferably the retraction mechanism is energized by movement of a hydraulically actuated piston for applying one or more brake pads. In an embodiment a drag sleeve is associated with the piston to compensate for brake pad wear and provide a more constant retraction force for retraction of the brake pads.

Abstract: A disk brake arrangement includes a retraction mechanism for positively retracting brake pads after application to the brake rotor. Preferably the retraction mechanism is energized by movement of a hydraulically actuated piston for applying one or more brake pads. In an embodiment a drag sleeve is associated with the piston to compensate for brake pad wear and provide a more constant retraction force for retraction of the brake pads.

Abstract: A disk brake arrangement includes a retraction mechanism for positively retracting brake pads after application to the brake rotor. Preferably the retraction mechanism is energized by movement of a hydraulically actuated piston for applying one or more brake pads. In an embodiment a drag sleeve is associated with the piston to compensate for brake pad wear and provide a more constant retraction force for retraction of the brake pads.

Abstract: A two stage master brake cylinder uses a primary and secondary piston to displace an initial large volume of hydraulic fluid during a first stage and a second stage that continues brake actuation by displacing a reduced volume of hydraulic fluid determined by the secondary piston. A by-pass control valve is adjustable to vary transition from the first stage to the second stage.

Abstract: The brake system employs a ring braking member and a suspended brake caliper having a responsive linkage correcting the caliper and a knuckle support arrangement. The ring braking member is preferably die cast as a single component with a control hub and is of a lightweight, high temperature aluminum composite material. The brake system is designed to have a relatively thick ring brake member of this lightweight material to provide sufficient capacity to absorb the heat of braking and transfer of this heat to the surrounding air prior to the ring brake reaching a temperature where damage is likely to occur. The normal operating temperature is well below the theoretical maximum temperature or rated temperature of the composite material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to ring brake arrangements and in particular to an effective arrangement for cooling of the brake. Heat is effectively rendered from the ring braking member by a fanned hub support arrangement which transfers the heat energy to an axial air flow which is pumped through the center of the brake. In addition heat is transferred to the brake caliper support bracket from the brake caliper. The brake caliper support bracket is located across the air flow which serves to cool the same. This structure is particularly well suited for high brake demand requirements where heat build up causes problems or reduces braking efficiency. The brake can also be used or can assist brake for trucks where the brake is located on the drive shaft.

Abstract: An improved brake actuator is disclosed that automatically adjusts for brake pad wear, thereby retaining a given retraction space from a fully actuated position. The actuator is hydraulically actuated and the components for positive retraction are housed within the hydraulic actuator, thereby protecting the components from the elements. The brake actuator has particular application for a ring brake having opposed cylindrical braking surfaces. An improved self-locking brake pad is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle brake and hub comprising a ring braking member having braking surfaces both to the interior and exterior of the member in combination with a cast hub which includes centrally disposed aligned bearing ports for receiving bearings. The cast hub includes an outwardly exposed securing surface which cooperates with the ring braking member to effect securement of the braking member to the casting and in a manner to accommodate heat transfer therebetween. The cast hub includes intermediate the securing surface and the align ports, fan blades which cause during rotation of the hub an axial flow of air to move across the bearing ports and to extract heat from the fan blades and the securing surface. The fan blades collectively interconnect and structurally secure the securing surface and the bearing ports.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle brake and hub comprising a ring braking member having braking surfaces both to the interior and exterior of the member in combination with a cast hub which includes centrally disposed aligned bearing ports for receiving bearings. The cast hub includes an outwardly exposed securing surface which cooperates with the ring braking member to effect securement of the braking member to the casting and in a manner to accommodate heat transfer therebetween. The cast hub includes intermediate the securing surface and the aligned ports, fan blades which cause during rotation of the hub an axial flow of air to move across the bearing ports and to extract heat from the fan blades and the securing surface. The fan blade collectively interconnect and structurally secure the securing surface and the bearing ports.